About me

Ken brings together experience in science, law, and entrepreneurship. He has a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Genetics, a Law Degree, and is a Four-time CEO. 

Ken has led the launch of several products.  Most notably, he was the founder and strategic visionary behind AncestryDNA, which has sold nearly 30 million DNA tests worldwide. He was also CEO of the company that developed a one-time gene therapy treatment and cure for adults with the bleeding disorder hemophilia B, which Pfizer now sells under the brand name Beqvez™.  He has navigated several FDA-regulated products and diagnostics, including the only FDA-approved saliva collection device used for detecting COVID-19 and a blood-based diagnostic for the early detection of liver cancer that is under FDA review. Most recently, Ken was founder and CEO of Nectar Allergy, which reinvented allergy care through innovative science, virtual care and an exceptional customer experience.

Ken is also a professor of law and a writer.  As an adjunct professor, Ken taught patent and entrepreneurial law at the University of Utah for over a decade. He has authored more than 50 scientific, legal, and news publications, and holds 23 patents. As a patent attorney, he is a recognized expert on the patentability of genes and specializes in contract, regulatory, and privacy law.  His insights have been sought by Presidential Committees, the National Cancer Institute, the Department of Health & Human Services and other agency and think tanks. He has appeared as an expert in news platforms such as PBS NewsHour and 20/20 and given countless talks at academic institutions and conferences, as well as mainstream media, with appearances on numerous TV shows, including Who Do You Think You Are? and even alongside Tyra Banks in America's Next Top Model.